2/21/26 - Tritons Wrestle with the Wildcats
Traversing states, driving through mountains, deserts, and stars to reach Tucson, Arizona, UCSD faced University of Arizona for the second away game of the season. Though the match ended 19-14, with University of Arizona winning, the Tritons persisted until the final knock on.
U of A battered down the field and although they were stuck down again and again by UCSD’s relentless defence, they poked through to score the first try of the game at the 11th minute. After the forwards’ demonstration of herculean strength, Mia Taylor (C) barrelled through, stiff-arming defenders and diving valiantly into the try zone. Stella Dorsey evened up the score in the 21st minute with a legendary conversion kick. U of A scored again in the 30th minute.
In the second half, Caelan Torres came in as prop and made a great impact on the field with new energy and boundless strength. Kalpanna (the Cheetah) Chaddha’s speed on the field danced around defenders, allowing Stella to thrust into the try zone. She slammed the ball through the uprights, landing the conversion. Sophia (Pauli) Smith came onto the field with a vengeance, tearing through U of A bodies, gaining crucial yards for the Tritons.
Autumn Hogan and Marlowe Snapp (the pod of god) were lions in the jungle of the 15 meter channel. UCSD dominated line outs thanks to Autumn’s amazing throws, leading to beautifully artistic footwork and plays by the backs. Marlowe, the other half of the pod of god, was on the hunt all game, taking carry after unstoppable carry.
Despite the loss, UCSD saw much improvement since last week’s game against SDSU. The leadership of Megan Takeuchi and Marianne Eichmann was instrumental in the team’s work on the field earning them this week's MVPs. With relentless energy and drive, UCSD is ready to dominate and strike fear in the remaining games of the season.
